Keeping your teeth and gums in good condition can help you stay healthy overall. Routine dental checkups, along with brushing and flossing regularly, are the most effective ways to maintain a healthy smile. You should aim to have dental checkups in San Antonio twice a year or more often if you have dental problems. Learn more about the advantages of having routine dental checkups.

Lower Risk of Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is among the most common dental problems. When decay becomes severe enough, it can increase your risk of serious infections and result in tooth loss. Your chance of developing tooth decay is higher when you have a buildup of plaque and tartar on your teeth. These harmful coatings can accumulate over time, even when you brush two or three times a day. During dental checkups, dentists remove tartar and plaque from the surface of your teeth, which significantly reduces your risk of tooth decay.

Healthier Gums

Gum disease is another common dental problem that can have severe results. When gum disease is left untreated, you can end up with an infection that spreads to other parts of your body, and your teeth can become loose and fall out as your gums recede. Dental checkups include thorough cleanings that remove plaque and bacteria from your gums, which helps ease minor inflammation before it can turn into periodontal disease.

Early Detection of Dental and Medical Problems

Regular dental checkups in San Antonio also ensure that dental problems and other medical issues are caught early. For example, dentists can screen for oral cancer in addition to checking for cavities and gum disease. Finding these dental and medical problems early helps you get the care you need as soon as possible. When you have an underlying disease or condition that can affect your oral health, such as diabetes, routine checkups also allow dentists to look for early signs of these problems and treat them promptly.

If it’s time to schedule your next dental cleaning, please contact Mason Dental Center in San Antonio today.